The Forestry Commission has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) to address the shortage of skilled professionals in forestry and related sectors.

The agreement, signed at the Forestry Commission's Head Office, designates UENR as a training ground for students, technicians, and field operatives.

Participants will undergo a 16-month programme, gaining practical knowledge of forests and the environment, and will receive certificates upon completion.

Commencing in January 2024, the partnership includes real-time industry-level coaching by seasoned professionals and is set to be renewed every three years for joint evaluation and improvement. 

Mr John Allotey, Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, and Prof Elvis Asare-Bediako, Vice-Chancellor of UENR, represented their respective institutions during the signing.

The initiative responds to the declining number of middle-level field agent staff with expertise in executing frontline roles within the commission. 

Mr Allotey emphasised the need for a staff strength of at least 400 personnel to address challenges such as illegal logging, mining, wildfires, and poaching, while also exploring opportunities in eco-tourism, climate change, and related areas.

Expressing gratitude to UENR for leading this initiative, Mr Allotey highlighted the importance of training in various areas critical to the Forestry Commission's mission.

Prof Asare-Bediako, noting the existing relationship between the university and the commission, stressed the significance of partnerships and collaborations for institutional advancement. 

He affirmed the commitment to making the MoU a "working agreement" to achieve its intended outcomes.

In a related development, the Forestry Commission conducted a training workshop for its regional Public Relations Officers at its Head Office in Accra. 

The workshop aims to enhance the skills of officers at the regional level, ensuring their ability to effectively communicate the commission's programmes and activities. 

The CEO, John Allotey, emphasised the importance of maintaining a qualified group of Public Relations professionals in the sector. 

The training, conducted in two phases, is part of the commission's efforts to keep officers updated and proficient in their roles.